Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS

State Government & Tribal Affairs Committee

HB 1914


This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Changing public works provisions for institutions of higher education.

Sponsors: Representatives Buri, Hunt, Hinkle, Sells and Wood.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Raises the bid limits from $35,000 to $50,000 and, in the case of a single trade, from $15,000 to $20,000 for building, construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition projects at a regional or state university, at the Evergreen State College, or at a community college.

Hearing Date: 2/23/07

Staff: Marsha Reilly (786-7135).

Background:

Whenever the cost of building, construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition is more than $35,000 at a regional or state university, or at The Evergreen State College, the project is subject to a public bid process. If a project involves one trade or craft area, such as electrical, and the estimated cost is $15,000 or more, the project must be bid. If a project is estimated to cost $25,000 or more, the project is deemed a "public works" and the prevailing rate of wage must be paid on that project. The public bid process is not required if a contract is awarded under the small works roster process. The small works roster process may be used for projects estimated to cost $200,000 or less.

Summary of Bill:

Requirements for a public bid process at regional and state universities, and The Evergreen State College are modified. Projects estimated to cost $50,000 or more must be bid. If the project involves one trade or craft area, it must be bid if the estimated cost is $20,000 or more. Community colleges are added as an entity to which these provisions apply.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.